Akha cotton cushion covers, 'Maesai' (pair)

Blending consummate artistry with exceptional workmanship, colors awake transformed into an arresting pattern flawlessly embroidered by the Akha artisans. Soft and inviting, this pair of cotton cushion covers will illumine your favorite corner with the enchanting miracle of a Thai morning. Cushions not included. By trading their colorful handicrafts, the Akha members of Thai Tribal Crafts are improving the life quality of their people, while restoring and reviving traditions and expressions, which, otherwise, may have been lost forever. Hailing from the majestic lands of Nepal, the Akha tribe has spread throughout the mountains of China, Laos Myanmar and Thailand. Today, there are about 20, 000 Akha natives living in the Northern Hills of Thailand, in villages distinguished by beautifully carved gates and protected by fierce guardian spirits. This is a proud and timeless culture, struggling to preserve its ancestral values through their traditional skills and knowledge. In the Akha society, women play an important role and have developed great skills and techniques in the manufacture of splendid cotton fabrics. They spin, dye and weave the cotton threads on a foot-powered loom. Finally, the pieces are sewn and decorated with bright colored appliqu�, embroidery, feathers, Job�s tears, cowry shells, beads, buttons, coins and silver ornaments. NOTE: As each item is a unique expression of the artisan's creativity, the products you receive will feature a very similar color and pattern scheme but may not be exactly identical to the one in the photograph.